Cleveland death metal powerhouse 200 Stab Wounds are set to make their long-awaited Australian and New Zealand debut this December as direct support for Dying Fetus — and guitarist Ray MacDonald joined Jai That Aussie Metal Guy to talk all things touring, setlists, and sonic brutality.
Having carved their name deep into the flesh of the modern death metal scene, 200 Stab Wounds fuse old-school groove with contemporary carnage, earning acclaim for their 2024 Metal Blade release Manual Manic Procedures. With a reputation for crushing live shows, horror-laced humor, and relentless touring, the Cleveland quartet have become one of the most exciting new forces in extreme music.
Australian Tour & Live Energy
The band will soon unleash their sound across Australia and New Zealand for the very first time, joining Dying Fetus on an eight-date run that promises to be one of the heaviest tours of 2025.
Guitarist Ray MacDonald discussed the upcoming shows, the band’s live setup, and the energy they bring to every stage — from their signature groove-driven riffing to their chaotic and theatrical performances. He also shared insight into how 200 Stab Wounds write music designed with the crowd in mind, ensuring every breakdown and riff hits with maximum impact.
Joining 200 Stab Wounds
Ray joined the band in 2023 after crossing paths with them while touring with Tribal Gaze, later contributing solos to Manual Manic Procedures. Since then, he’s become a key creative force within the band’s sound and live chemistry.
Known for his work in North Texas acts like Frozen Soul, Kombat, and Imperial Slaughter, MacDonald brings a heavy pedigree and distinct guitar tone built from years in the underground. His current live rig — featuring a Dunable Narwhal, Caronde pickups, and a custom Peavey-based setup — helps him capture the dense, guttural tone that defines the 200SW sound.
Looking Ahead
While focused on the upcoming tour, 200 Stab Wounds are already sketching ideas for 2026, balancing heavy touring with writing new material. The band continues to expand their reach globally, and the Australian run marks another milestone in that mission.
Warming up the circle pits and necks will be the slamming sonic signature of ORGANECTOMY in New Zealand and the old-school death metal grit and punishing ferocity of ASHEN in Australia.
DYING FETUS with 200 STAB WOUNDS performing at:
Dec 5th – Auckland, Galatos*
Dec 6th – Christchurch, Loons*
Dec 7th – Wellington, San Fran*
Dec 9th – Adelaide, Lion Arts Factory+
Dec 11th – Hobart, Altar+
Dec 12th – Melbourne, Northcote Theatre+
Dec 13th – Sydney, Metro Theatre+
Dec 14th – Brisbane, The Triffid+
*Organectomy appearing / +Ashen appearing
TICKETS RUNNING LOW AT ALL SHOWS!
Ticket details at https://swdpresents.com
